Introduction to Criminal Law

This course examines the nature, purpose and historical development of criminal law from common law to contemporary federal and state statutory and case law. The general principles of criminal liability and responsibility, parties to crimes, criminal elements of crimes, and defenses to criminal liability are studied. Among the crimes to be addressed are homicide, crimes against persons, sexual assault, crimes against property, drug offenses, terrorism, crimes by and against the government and public order and public morals. Offered annually.